President William Ruto has brushed aside efforts by his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, to undermine his political standing in the Mt Kenya region, asserting that such attempts are futile and bound to fail. Speaking during a Sunday church service at ACK St Paul’s Church Kariki in Othaya, Nyeri County, the president said his relationship with residents of the region is deeply rooted and cannot be shaken by political rhetoric or hostility.
Addressing congregants in what is widely seen as Gachagua’s political backyard, Ruto maintained that the bond he has built with Mt Kenya voters is founded on trust and shared commitments. He dismissed claims that political noise and misinformation could erode that relationship, saying the connection forged during the 2022 General Election remains firm. According to the head of state, those trying to create divisions between him and the region are wasting their time.
The Nyeri visit marked Ruto’s first appearance in the county in several months, coming amid heightened political tension following sustained criticism from Gachagua, who has publicly vowed to mobilise Mt Kenya voters against the president’s re-election bid in 2027. Ruto, however, reiterated that the region overwhelmingly backed him in the last election and insisted that the partnership with residents is intact.
The president used the occasion to defend his administration’s development agenda, stating that his government is delivering on promises made to the people of Mt Kenya. He highlighted investments in education, agriculture, trade, road infrastructure and electricity as proof of his commitment to the region’s progress. Ruto said his leadership is guided by an agreement with voters to address these key sectors.
He also challenged his critics to prepare for the ballot, arguing that leadership should be assessed on performance rather than insults or theatrics. Ruto said the 2027 election would be an “examination” where leaders would be judged on their record.
The president was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, several Members of Parliament, senators and women representatives from the region. The strong turnout of leaders was viewed as a show of political muscle aimed at countering narratives that Ruto’s influence in Mt Kenya is weakening.
